Preparing for your appointment

You'll likely start by seeing your primary doctor or dentist. Depending on your symptoms, you may be referred to a specialist in skin diseases (dermatologist), a specialist in gum and dental diseases (periodontist), a specialist of the upper gastrointestinal tract (gastroenterologist), or a doctor specializing in women's health (gynecologist).

What you can do

To get ready for your appointment:

Bring a copy of all previous consultations and tests you've had about this problem.

Ask if there's anything you need to do before the appointment, such as restrict your diet.

Make a list of any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to your sore mouth.

Make a list of key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.

Make a list of all medications, vitamins, herbs or supplements that you're taking.

Prepare questions ahead of time to help make the most of your time with your doctor or dentist.

Take a family member or friend with you, if possible, for support and to help you remember everything.

Some basic questions to ask your doctor or dentist include:

What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?

What are other possible causes?

What kinds of tests do I need?

What is the best course of action?

What are the alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?

I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?

Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?

Should I see a specialist?

Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?

Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Legal Conditions and Terms

Reprint Permissions

A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.